Anamsmtpcar
This test measures nuclear antibodies (ANA) in the fluid around the heart (pericardial fluid) to help determine if an autoimmune condition is causing pericarditis.
{"The test checks for autoimmune antibodies in heart fluid","It helps doctors find the cause of pericarditis (heart lining inflammation)","A positive result may indicate lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune diseases","The fluid is collected using a needle procedure called pericardiocentesis","Results are interpreted alongside other clinical findings"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109836-7
- Short code
- ANA Msmt Pcar
- Synonyms
- ANA Msmt Pcar
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86038
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A nuclear antibody (ANA) test in pericardial fluid looks for specific proteins called antinuclear antibodies in the fluid that surrounds your heart. These antibodies are normally produced by your immune system to fight harmful substances, but sometimes they mistakenly attack your body's own cells. When these antibodies are found in pericardial fluid, it may indicate that an autoimmune disorder is causing inflammation of the pericardium (the sac around your heart).
How is the sample collected?
Pericardial fluid is collected through a procedure called pericardiocentesis. During this procedure, a doctor inserts a thin needle through your chest wall into the pericardial sac to withdraw fluid. The area will be numbed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. This procedure is typically done while monitoring your heart with ultrasound (echocardiography) for safety.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of pericarditis that are severe, recurring, or not responding to standard treatment. Symptoms include sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, fever, and difficulty breathing. Finding nuclear antibodies in the fluid can help determine if an autoimmune condition is the underlying cause, which would guide treatment with immunosuppressive medications rather than just anti-inflammatory drugs.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do positive results mean?
Are there risks to having this test?
Do I need to prepare anything before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy